Gardening

If you are making the switch to organic gardening, you may be concerned about losing plants to insect pests. In the short run, this is likely to occur. However, established organic gardens typically lose fewer plants to insect pests than conventional gardens.… Read more

Viburnums are one of my very favorite shrubs for the garden because they just keep on giving. In spring, they produce masses of beautiful (and often fragrant) blossoms. In summer and fall they offer attractive foliage and a pleasing shape. And in winter, they stand out against the snow with bright, brilliant berries, many of which are also an important food source for birds and other wildlife.… Read more

Imagine a beautiful summer day in your backyard. You’ve prepared a picnic to eat outside and enjoy the lovely weather, maybe a delicious salad or a sandwich and some lemonade. Instead of packing yourself a dessert, however, you finish your lunch and go over to the edge of your garden, where you pluck luscious, sun-ripened berries right from the bush to pop into your mouth.… Read more

Earthworms are a gardener’s best friends. Studies have found many plants that perform significantly better in earthworm-rich soil than in soil with relatively few earthworms. This is because earthworm burrows help air, water, and plant roots make their way more easily through the soil.… Read more

Kerry is the author of P is for Princess: The Extraordinary Lives of 26 Real-Life Princesses, and numerous articles and blog posts on topics such as history, science, gardening, sustainability, and women’s issues.